Social Policy Research Unit
The Social Policy Research Unit plays a crucial role in facilitating Good Shepherd’s commitment to social justice. Through a variety of research projects and activities, we are dedicated to effecting structural change and improving the lives of the people who use our services. The Social Policy Research Unit engages with the community services sector in social action campaigns and is responsible for qualitative and quantitative research, policy analysis and the preparation of submissions to government reviews.
The Social Policy Research team also provides organisation wide support through a variety of channels, providing Good Shepherd location managers with assistance in service reviews and evaluation, program development and the preparation of funding submissions. Members of the team regularly attend local staff meetings to assist with community strengthening initiatives and local social action projects.
Members of the unit area often approached by the media for public comment, which provides us with the opportunity to raise community awareness and challenge systemic injustices. We continue to promote fairer access to essential goods and services, particularly in light of the impact of climate change initiatives on families on low incomes.
Research projects undertaken in 2007 and 2008 include the Women’s Financial Capability Project, Respite Care Project and Standpoint Project. For details or updates on these projects or to find out about current projects, contact the Social Policy Research team on 03 9418 3000.
Scroll down for copies of newsletters, presentations, occasional papers and research.
Click here for information on the Education Costs Kit 2009

Newsletters
Good Policy Volume 5 No. 1 Winter 2009
Good Policy No. 4/Volume 2 Spring 2008 Good Policy No. 4/Volume 1 Good Policy No. 3/Volume 1 Good Policy No. 2/Volume 3 Good Policy No. 2/Volume 2 Good Policy No. 2/Volume 1 Good Policy No. 1/Volume 1
Conference Papers Critical Financial Capability Working with Schools August 2006 AFFRCA Inclusion and Financial Capability 31.7.08 AFFRCA Financial Literacy in Community Development 31.7.08
Occasional Papers Critical Financial Capability A Balancing Act or Mission Impossible
Miscellaneous Papers Support for Apology The Big Idea of Emergency Relief The Community Information Sector and Civil Society 27.8.08
Research Papers
Researching the Gaps: The needs of women who have experienced long-term domestic violence - November 2009
Money, Dignity and Inclusion
Under Pressure - Costs of living, Financial hardship & Emergency relief - May 2009
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